NUS and CSA to establish S$20 million CyberSG Talent, Innovation and Growth Collaboration Centre to address growing demand for robust cybersecurity solutions

NUS-CSA CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre_NN1
Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information, looking on as Mr David Koh, Chief Executive, Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (extreme left) and Professor Chen Tsuhan, NUS Deputy President (Innovation and Enterprise) exchange Memorandum of Understanding documents.

NUS has partnered Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) to establish a new S$20 million NUS-CSA CyberSG Talent, Innovation and Growth (TIG) Collaboration Centre. This initiative, unveiled during the Cybersecurity Industry Innovation Day on 29 September 2023, aims to establish Singapore as the premier global cybersecurity innovation hub for economic growth. It will play a key role in achieving the objectives set out in CSA’s S$50 million Cyber TIG Plan to uplift Singapore’s cybersecurity sector.

In today’s interconnected digital world, the need for sophisticated and trusted cybersecurity solutions has reached unprecedented levels. With Southeast Asia’s digital economy projected to reach US$1 trillion by 2030 and Internet users on the rise[1], a strong cybersecurity industry is essential. Beyond safeguarding Singapore’s digital future and cybersecurity resilience, especially amid recent scams and cybercrimes[2], the CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre bolsters Singapore’s reputation as a trusted digital hub and aspires to help advance cybersecurity as an emerging economic driver for Singapore.

Speaking at the Cybersecurity Industry Innovation Day, Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information, said, “Under the Cyber TIG Plan, we will establish a new physical node at NUS, called the CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre. This new Centre has three aims: to integrate CSA’s existing initiatives; to explore new talent and innovation initiatives; and to bring together industry, end users, investors, trade and professional associations, cyber professionals and government agencies.”

 

NUS-CSA CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre to help build a vibrant cybersecurity ecosystem

The CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre will address dependencies between cybersecurity talent, innovation, and growth for the industry, by serving as a convening platform to integrate and create relevant programmes for industry and talent development in Singapore, and a global node for international cooperation on innovation. It will help build a vibrant cybersecurity ecosystem by bringing together local and international cybersecurity stakeholders, including industry, academia, cybersecurity professionals and government stakeholders to leverage the opportunities posed by digitalisation.

The CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre will also build upon NUS Enterprise’s entrepreneurial academic programmes and extensive global BLOCK71 network, providing cybersecurity talents and companies with access to resources and opportunities for growth, particularly through ICE71, which operates the first cybersecurity-focused accelerator in Singapore.

Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS, said, “Singapore’s standing as a digital innovation hub underscores the importance of cybersecurity, not only for national security but increasingly as a key driver for economic growth. To build a cyber-resilient nation, we need to develop a robust cybersecurity ecosystem fuelled by innovation and entrepreneurship. Our collaboration with CSA to set up the NUS-CSA CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre leverages the University’s strengths, including ready innovation platforms, entrepreneurial academic programmes, a global ecosystem network and multi-disciplinary resources. We aim to promote growth in the cybersecurity sector and enhance cybersecurity capabilities across industry sectors, enabling them to be future-ready.”

The CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre’s strategic initiatives are structured around three core pillars, each designed to complement and synergise with the others through collaborations with cybersecurity stakeholders including academia, industry, government and international organisations:

1. Talent

This foundational pillar focuses on building a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals and expanding cybersecurity capabilities across industry sectors. NUS will take on the role of an integrated programme manager, working closely with CSA to jointly plan and better synergise CSA’s Talent & Skills Development programmes, including SG Cyber Youth and Associates, as well as identify and collaborate with potential partners to co-deliver impactful programmes supported by CSA’s Talent Development Fund. This will help ensure that the talent programmes remain relevant to the current cybersecurity landscape and industry needs.

SG Cyber Youth will leverage the success of the NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) programme. Through NOC, students will be placed in prominent entrepreneurial and cybersecurity hubs worldwide, offering them valuable exposure to global innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities.

2. Innovation

The Innovation pillar involves co-innovation with industry, bridging the path from innovation to commercialisation, and nurturing promising cybersecurity companies for Singapore and the region. For example, CSA collaborates with NUS to co-organise the Cybersecurity Industry Call for Innovation (CyberCall), an annual cybersecurity innovation challenge that invites companies to participate and co-develop innovative solutions targeting critical cybersecurity challenges faced in Singapore. Through working with partners who are key demand drivers for cybersecurity solutions, this strengthens partner organisations’ cyber resilience, while providing opportunities for cybersecurity companies to address market gaps and accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge solutions in Singapore.

Drawing on the experience of ICE71, an upcoming cybersecurity-focused CyberBoost programme is tailored to provide comprehensive support for the growth of promising cybersecurity companies. To cater to the diverse needs of companies at various stages of development, CyberBoost includes two variants: one designed for early-stage companies looking to test, validate and build a Minimum Viable Product; and the other for companies ready to scale their cybersecurity solutions in Singapore and beyond.

3. Growth

The Growth pillar aims to enable cybersecurity companies anchored in Singapore to scale regionally and globally, thus growing their businesses. An enhanced CyberGrowth programme will facilitate the international expansion of local cybersecurity companies through various initiatives such as development of playbooks, equipping companies with valuable insights into the cybersecurity landscape and business opportunities, organising cyber-focused business missions and more.

Mr David Koh, Commissioner of Cybersecurity and Chief Executive of CSA, said, “Workforce and ecosystem development are the foundations of Singapore’s 2021 Cybersecurity Strategy. The CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre will play an important role in bringing together ecosystem stakeholders to develop innovative solutions and grow talent. This effort complements our other effort in CyberSG R&D Programme office at NTU. We are excited to work with NUS and NTU in these complementary efforts for the cybersecurity team.”

 

NUS partners with ISTARI to support the Centre’s ambition

Collaboration with diverse partners is essential for the CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre’s success. To kickstart these collaborative efforts, NUS signed a second Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Cybersecurity Innovation Day, with ISTARI, the global cybersecurity platform established by Temasek.

This strategic partnership will advance the CyberSG TIG Collaboration Centre’s objectives and encompasses three key areas that include internship opportunities with cybersecurity companies for students participating in the NOC programme. In addition, ISTARI will facilitate mentorship opportunities for NOC students, connecting them with seasoned entrepreneurs and investors within its ecosystem. Lastly, NUS and ISTARI will jointly organise events to enhance cyber resilience in the region.

Ms Rashmy Chatterjee, Chief Executive Officer of ISTARI, said, “Our founding promise at ISTARI is the idea of collective power. Together, as an ecosystem, we can be stronger. That’s why it is an honour and privilege to partner with NUS, one of the world’s leading universities, to ensure we develop the next generation of talent in Singapore. As a collaboration, we can collectively help make Singapore the premier global cybersecurity hub for innovation and talent.”

 

The Cybersecurity Innovation Day also saw NUS and ISTARI exchanging Memorandum of Understanding documents. In the photo are (from left to right) Professor Chee Yeow Meng, NUS Vice President (Innovation and Enterprise); Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information; and Mr Rossa Shanks, Chief Marketing Officer, ISTARI Global Limited.

 

CyberCall 2022 awardees and launch of CyberCall 2023 challenge statements

Launched by CSA in collaboration with NUS, CyberCall is dedicated to fostering innovative cybersecurity solutions, bolstering cyber resilience for organisations, and promoting the adoption of cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions in Singapore.

Presenting seven challenge statements, CyberCall 2022 received proposals from over 50 local and international companies. Following a rigorous selection process involving assessments by end-users, a technical review panel, and CSA’s inter-division panel, four outstanding proposals were chosen for their effectiveness in addressing various cybersecurity issues, ranging from cyber-attack prevention to data privacy preservation in digital forensics. The CyberCall 2022 awardees were announced at the event, with each recipient securing funding of up to S$1,000,000 from CSA’s Cybersecurity Co-Innovation and Development Fund to realise their innovative solutions.

CyberCall 2023 is currently accepting submissions targeting cybersecurity challenges in sectors like manufacturing, maritime, healthcare, and energy and utilities till 30 November 2023. Cybersecurity companies with shortlisted proposals will have the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions with participating end-users to explore co-innovation, adoption, and test-bedding possibilities. More information is available here.

 

By NUS Enterprise


[1] Southeast Asia’s online economy is still on track to reach US$1 trillion by 2030 as online shopping becomes the norm, according to the report. The region also continues to see growth in the number of Internet users — with 20 million new users added in 2022, raising the total number of users to 460 million. (Source: CNBC)

[2] The Asia Pacific (APAC) region is experiencing a huge increase in cyberattacks compared to its global counterparts, with the average annual cost of cybercrime expected to soar from US$8.4 trillion in 2022 to more than US$23 trillion in 2027. (Source: World Economic Forum)

ICE71 Startup Responsible Cyber Secures License for Penetration Testing in Singapore

ICE71 Accelerate alum, Responsible Cyber, has earned the license to provide Penetration Testing Services in Singapore (License No: CS/PTS/C-2023-0413). Congratulations! Read the press release below:


Expertise recognised by Singapore’s regulators
The cyber landscape is morphing every day, with threats becoming more sophisticated and persistent. In such times, the official nod to Responsible Cyber couldn’t come at a more opportune moment. Responsible Cyber is now perfectly positioned to be the guardians for businesses in Singapore, helping them stay agile and secure against the ever-shifting cyber tide.

For companies looking to fortify their digital walls, there’s a message here: engaging with licensed players like Responsible Cyber is the way to go. This license isn’t just a stamp; it’s a promise that you’re in partnership with a team recognized for its expertise and dedication by our very own regulators.

Helping digital businesses in Singapore thrive safely
Dr. Magda Chelly, the driving force behind Responsible Cyber, shared her excitement, “This license is more than just an achievement for us. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to ensure the digital sanctity of businesses in Singapore. We’re here, more equipped than ever, to make sure companies can thrive safely in this digital age.”

When you partner with Responsible Cyber, you’re not just getting a service; you’re aligning with a vision – a vision of a safer, more secure digital future, backed by the very latest in cybersecurity research and action.

Responsible Cyber goes to Cyber Security World Asia 2023
This year, Responsible Cyber is gearing up to mesmerize attendees at Cyber Security World Asia 2023. The booth, is shaping up to be an intellectual carnival, an amalgamation of advanced tech, passionate discussions, and a spirit of collective growth. It’s not just a booth; it’s a nexus of the future of cybersecurity, sprinkled with some delightful Singaporean charm.

So, what’s setting the rumor mills abuzz? Enter, IMMUNE X-TPRM. This isn’t just another platform; it’s Responsible Cyber’s heart and soul translated into tech. It’s their mission to foster trust and safety in our shared digital universe. Echoing Dr. Chelly’s sentiments, “Cybersecurity is a canvas where technology meets humanity. It’s not just about safeguarding data; it’s about ensuring that every byte, every bit, resonates with security, trust, and integrity.”

About Responsible Cyber Pte. Ltd.
Born in Singapore’s dynamic landscape in 2016, Responsible Cyber was the brainchild of industry aces Magda Chelly and Mikko Laaksonen. Today, their influence spans from the UK and France to Poland. With strong backing from giants like Singtel Innov8 and NUS Enterprise, they’ve been trailblazing with their AI-driven tools, IMMUNE X-TPRM and IMMUNE GRC, each designed to address today’s digital challenges.
For a deep dive into their universe, pop over to www.responsible-cyber.com.

ICE71 Startup Responsible Cyber Achieves Cyber Essentials Certification

Congratulations to homegrown ICE71 startup, Responsible Cyber, on being awarded the Cyber Essentials certification by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA). Read the press release below.


Responsible Cyber, an illustrious graduate startup from ICE71’s pioneering program, announced its triumphant attainment of the coveted Cyber Essentials certification, setting a benchmark for cyber excellence in Singapore’s vibrant digital landscape.

This milestone isn’t just an emblem of Responsible Cyber’s commitment to safeguarding the digital realm, but it heralds a clarion call to other SMEs. The achievement underscores their role as a beacon for businesses, big or small, demystifying the often complex web of cybersecurity.

Responsible Cyber’s luminary Co-Founder and Managing Director, Dr. Magda Chelly, shared profound insights, “We advocate for robust cybersecurity practices, and to resonate with authenticity, we put ourselves to the test. By achieving the Cyber Essentials mark, we’ve showcased that prioritizing cyber health isn’t an exorbitant task but a feasible journey for every enterprise.”

Beyond certification, Responsible Cyber’s ethos champions continuous evolution. Wayne Yan, Project and Compliance Manager, remarked, “While the certification outlines the foundation, the true essence lies in ceaseless adaptation. Our guiding compass? Safeguarding entrusted data and fostering a culture of resilience and innovation.”

In a world where digital threats loom large, this certification, introduced by CSA in 2022, stands as a testament to a firm’s dedication to mitigating common cyber vulnerabilities. However, Responsible Cyber stresses it’s the starting line, not the finish. Dr. Chelly avers, “The digital realm is ever-evolving. While we’re honored by this certification, our eyes are already set on the horizon, ensuring we remain at the pinnacle of cyber readiness.”

Co-founder Mikko Laaksonen eagerly shared the company’s forward momentum, “As we celebrate today’s accomplishment, our sights are already set on the next milestone: the Cyber Trust mark certification.”

As cyber threats evolve, Responsible Cyber emerges not just as a guardian but an inspiration. Their certification journey beckons SMEs to rise to the challenge, fortifying themselves in this digital age. Their story is an affirmation: Cyber readiness is not a luxury but a necessity, accessible and achievable.

ICE71 start-up Aires Applied Tech and Software Development company Techzu join Forces to Propel SMEs into a Secure Digital Future

Congratulations to ICE71 Accelerate 2023 start-up, Aires Applied Tech on signing a new partnership with fellow home-grown software development company, Techzu!
Read the official announcement below.

A Strategic Partnership for Affordable and Advanced Digital Solutions for Singapore SMEs
Singapore, [24 Jul 2023] – Techzu Ichicode Pte Ltd (Techzu), a leading Singapore-based software development company, and Aires Applied Tech Pte Ltd (AAT), a trailblazing research & development firm, have officially signed an MOU agreement at ICE71, cementing their commitment to revolutionize SMEs in Singapore. This strategic collaboration aims to deliver cost-effective and cutting-edge digital solutions, fortified with the latest security technology, to empower SMEs on their digitalization journey and elevate their business potential securely.

Techzu Ichicode Pte Ltd: Enabling SME Digitalization with Tailor-Made Software Solutions
Techzu has established itself as a prominent player in the software development industry, dedicated to empowering SMEs with customized enterprise software. Leveraging available government grants, Techzu facilitates seamless digitalization for SMEs by providing them with tailored Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Project Management Systems, and more.

Aires Applied Tech Pte Ltd: Pioneering Innovation in Cybersecurity and AI
Aires Applied Tech has become a key player in research & development, focused on exploring cutting-edge technologies. With a strong emphasis on Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Encryption, Aires Applied Tech enjoys the support of Enterprise Singapore and NUS. As a member of ICE71, the firm is committed to elevating security standards in the digital landscape.

A Collaborative Mission for Enhanced Security and Digital Transformation

The formalization of the MOU heralds the start of a promising partnership between Techzu and Aires Applied Tech. The primary objective of this collaboration is to empower SMEs in Singapore with transformative digital solutions, reinforced by state-of-the-art security technology. By merging Techzu’s expertise in software development with Aires Applied Tech’s cutting-edge research in cybersecurity, this partnership offers a dynamic blend of innovation and security to propel SMEs towards unparalleled digital growth.

Empowering SMEs with Enhanced Investment Opportunities
This collaboration offers Singapore startups a competitive edge in attracting investment opportunities. Through the fusion of Techzu’s bespoke digital solutions and Aires Applied Tech’s advanced cybersecurity measures, startups can confidently attract potential investors. The emphasis on innovation and security not only enhances their market appeal but also instils trust and confidence in the protection of sensitive information, bolstering the overall operations of SMEs.

Empowering SMEs with Robust Digital Solutions
At the heart of this alliance is the shared vision to empower SMEs in Singapore with seamless digital transformation. By harnessing the latest security technology, businesses can confidently navigate the digital landscape while fortifying themselves against potential cybersecurity threats.

Empowering SMEs: Embrace a Secure Digital Future
The strategic collaboration between Techzu and Aires Applied Tech lies a potent solution to mitigate ransomware incidents, especially for visionary SME owners eager to embrace digitalization and future-proof their businesses. Given the resource limitations most SMEs face in countering cyber threats (“Phishing and Ransomware,” 2023), this partnership empowers SMEs to proactively protect against ransomware attacks, effectively reducing the risk of successful breaches. Furthermore, with the availability of possible government grants, SMEs can confidently embark on their digitalization journey, knowing they have the necessary assurance and support.

Take the first step towards securing your business’s future. Explore the transformative solutions offered by Techzu and Aires Applied Tech today. Together, let’s unlock your business’s full potential in the digital era.

For inquiries and more information on available digital solutions and government grants, reach out to us and embark on a secure and prosperous future for your business.

Techzu and ICE71 start-up Aires Applied Tech Join Forces to Propel SMEs into a Secure Digital Future

Congratulations to ICE71 Accelerate 2023 start-up, Aires Applied Tech on signing a new partnership with fellow home-grown software development company, Techzu!
Read the official announcement below.

A Strategic Partnership for Affordable and Advanced Digital Solutions for Singapore SMEs
Singapore, [24 Jul 2023] – Techzu Ichicode Pte Ltd (Techzu), a leading Singapore-based software development company, and Aires Applied Tech Pte Ltd (AAT), a trailblazing research & development firm, have officially signed an MOU agreement at ICE71, cementing their commitment to revolutionize SMEs in Singapore. This strategic collaboration aims to deliver cost-effective and cutting-edge digital solutions, fortified with the latest security technology, to empower SMEs on their digitalization journey and elevate their business potential securely.

Techzu Ichicode Pte Ltd: Enabling SME Digitalization with Tailor-Made Software Solutions
Techzu has established itself as a prominent player in the software development industry, dedicated to empowering SMEs with customized enterprise software. Leveraging available government grants, Techzu facilitates seamless digitalization for SMEs by providing them with tailored Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Project Management Systems, and more.

Aires Applied Tech Pte Ltd: Pioneering Innovation in Cybersecurity and AI
Aires Applied Tech has become a key player in research & development, focused on exploring cutting-edge technologies. With a strong emphasis on Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Encryption, Aires Applied Tech enjoys the support of Enterprise Singapore and NUS. As a member of ICE71, the firm is committed to elevating security standards in the digital landscape.

A Collaborative Mission for Enhanced Security and Digital Transformation

The formalization of the MOU heralds the start of a promising partnership between Techzu and Aires Applied Tech. The primary objective of this collaboration is to empower SMEs in Singapore with transformative digital solutions, reinforced by state-of-the-art security technology. By merging Techzu’s expertise in software development with Aires Applied Tech’s cutting-edge research in cybersecurity, this partnership offers a dynamic blend of innovation and security to propel SMEs towards unparalleled digital growth.

Empowering SMEs with Enhanced Investment Opportunities
This collaboration offers Singapore startups a competitive edge in attracting investment opportunities. Through the fusion of Techzu’s bespoke digital solutions and Aires Applied Tech’s advanced cybersecurity measures, startups can confidently attract potential investors. The emphasis on innovation and security not only enhances their market appeal but also instils trust and confidence in the protection of sensitive information, bolstering the overall operations of SMEs.

Empowering SMEs with Robust Digital Solutions
At the heart of this alliance is the shared vision to empower SMEs in Singapore with seamless digital transformation. By harnessing the latest security technology, businesses can confidently navigate the digital landscape while fortifying themselves against potential cybersecurity threats.

Empowering SMEs: Embrace a Secure Digital Future
The strategic collaboration between Techzu and Aires Applied Tech lies a potent solution to mitigate ransomware incidents, especially for visionary SME owners eager to embrace digitalization and future-proof their businesses. Given the resource limitations most SMEs face in countering cyber threats (“Phishing and Ransomware,” 2023), this partnership empowers SMEs to proactively protect against ransomware attacks, effectively reducing the risk of successful breaches. Furthermore, with the availability of possible government grants, SMEs can confidently embark on their digitalization journey, knowing they have the necessary assurance and support.

Take the first step towards securing your business’s future. Explore the transformative solutions offered by Techzu and Aires Applied Tech today. Together, let’s unlock your business’s full potential in the digital era.

For inquiries and more information on available digital solutions and government grants, reach out to us and embark on a secure and prosperous future for your business.

BLOCK71 Global Startup Runway 2023 – ICE71 Start-up Pitches

This is not a Demo Day is a culmination of the intense training received during BLOCK71’s Global Startup Runway programme. As part of the Singapore cohort, five ICE71 start-ups finally presented their cybersecurity solutions and business pitches to investors, corporates, government and institutions to secure funding and support for their exciting journey ahead!

Cohort 5 Startups have been mentored on Unit Economics, Funding, Branding, Impact, Product and Scaling by:

  • VCs from Cocoon Capital, Wavemaker Partners, Touchstone Ventures, AC Ventures, Kejora Ventures, Finch Capital, Farquhar Capital, Do Ventures, Atlas Ventures
  • Technical Experts from B Lab Singapore, Pencil Group, Growth Marketing Studio, Brandspace Advisory
  • Fellow entrepreneurs from Allo Bank, Bobobox, Xurya Daya, Genetica, Eden Farm, nafas, TechinAsia, Pinhome, SYNthesize, SentinalOne, Selly, Republic
  • Tech Corporate division Leads from STRIPE, Alicloud, Byteplus, AW

Are you interested in discussing potential opportunities with these teams? Reach out to enquiries@ice71.sg to get connected!

Missed the event? Access the programme booklet here and watch the pitches below.


Aires Applied Technology
Founders: Lim Meng Liang, Ken Lin

Focus: Quantum-Resistant Encryption

Aires A.T has proprietary tech in Post-Quantum Data Encryption coupled with AI, to replace encryption standards today. Their novel methods of data protection form a robust & efficient security infrastructure for clients of varying needs, both individuals and organizations.

 

Numen Cyber Technology
Founders: Chris Zheng, Nolan Wang, Dr. Simon Xie

Focus: Web3 Threat Detection & Response

Numen Cyber focuses on Web3 project security audit, on-chain threat detection and response, digital currency tracing and Web3 threat intelligence.

 

AxisNow
Founders: Andy Ong

Focus: Cloud SASE Network Security

“Axisnow is the first alternative to Cloudflare. Axisnow uses the SASE and zero-trust network model to provide distributed employees, B2B upstream and downstream partners, and B2C customers with secure access to websites, applications, APIs, and the Internet. They have built a secure access unified cloud which allows companies to build a modern secure access network in minutes from a single panel, securely opening any resource to any user for quick access.”

 

PolyDigi
Founders: Curtis Chan, Johnathan Lee

Focus: Identity Access and Management (IAM) for Digital Transactions

PolyDigi is an Identity Access and Management (IAM) start-up that make digital transactions safer and smoother with its user friendly multi-factor authentication.

 

Reperion
Founders: Andrew W. Sallay, Dr. Dmitry Mikhaylov

Focus: Operational Resilience for Maritime & Drones

Reperion assures operational resilience across sea, land, and air by securing the hardest assets to defend from cyber and drone attacks.

ICE71 Accelerate Cohort 2023


Meet our latest ICE71 Accelerate start-up cohort!

 

Aires Applied Technology
Founders: Lim Meng Liang, Ken Lin

Focus: Quantum-Resistant Encryption

“Aires A.T has proprietary tech in Post-Quantum Data Encryption coupled with AI, to replace encryption standards today. Their novel methods of data protection form a robust & efficient security infrastructure for clients of varying needs, both individuals and organizations.”

Contact Aires A.T →

 

Numen Cyber Technology
Founders: Chris Zheng, Nolan Wang, Dr. Simon Xie

Focus: Web3 Security

“Numen Cyber is developing an On-Chain security platform to help web3 applications to avoid being attacked and causing asset lost with multiple security methodology and security ecosystem.”

Contact Numen Cyber →

 

AxisNow
Founders: Andy Ong

Focus: Cloud SASE Network Security

“Axisnow is the first alternative to Cloudflare. Axisnow uses the SASE and zero-trust network model to provide distributed employees, B2B upstream and downstream partners, and B2C customers with secure access to websites, applications, APIs, and the Internet. They have built a secure access unified cloud which allows companies to build a modern secure access network in minutes from a single panel, securely opening any resource to any user for quick access.”

Contact AxisNow →

 

PolyDigi
Founders: Curtis Chan, Johnathan Lee

Focus: Identity Access and Management (IAM) for Digital Transactions

“PolyDigiTech is an award-winning cybersecurity Identity Access and Management (IAM) start-up that makes digital transactions safer and smoother with its user friendly and comprehensive multi-factor authentication.”

Contact PolyDigi now →

 

Reperion
Founders: Andrew W. Sallay, Dr. Dmitry Mikhaylov

Focus: Operational Resilience for Maritime & Drones

“Reperion assures operational resilience across sea, land, and air by securing the hardest assets to defend from cyber and drone attacks.”

Contact Reperion →

ICE71 Hosts Dan Woods, Global Head of Intelligence of F5

ICE71 had the privilege of hosting Dan Woods, Global Head of Intelligence of F5, for a cybersecurity sharing session.

At this community event, Dan shed light on the latest tools used by cyber attackers, using real-life cases as examples. Along with providing valuable insights, he also shared personal experiences in cyber intelligence. He talked about how he pursued high-value targets at CIA, assisted with investigations on the 2001 anthrax attacks at the FBI, and gave a behind-the-scenes peek into a Russian human click farm.

Taking questions from cybersecurity practitioners during Q&A, Dan shared his thoughts on a range of topics from how he found his passion for cybersecurity to tips for professional development, adding to the richness of knowledge shared at the event.

Overall, the event was a success. ICE71 hopes to bring more cybersecurity sharing sessions in the future to continue fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the community.

The event was made possible through the efforts of Division Zero (Div0) and F5, who extended the opportunity to the ICE71 Community.

Fun fact: ICE71 start-up alum Shape Security was acquired by F5 for $1B in 2020, marking the company’s highest acquisition to date!

For event collaborations, please write to us.

Highlights – Govware-ICE71 Startup Pitch Pit 2022

The Govware-ICE71 Pitch Pit our showcase stage for ICE71 Community start-ups at the Govware Conference, where professionals and experts from across the globe convene annually for the Singapore International Cybersecurity Week.

The purpose of the Pitch Pit is for participating companies – Responsible CyberXRATOR and Protos Labs – to receive real-world feedback for further validation of their solutions.

This year, all three pitching companies showcased solutions for Cybersecurity Risk Assessment in a friendly competition before a panel of esteemed judges. The judges were:

– Cheri Lim – CISO, Temasek
– Will Klippgen – Managing Partner, Cocoon Capital
– James Chong – Senior Director, NCS Innovation Hub
– Pang Tzer Yeu – Head of Information Security, Mediacorp

Each start-up had the opportunity to deliver a full pitch + Q&A, followed by a final quick fire question round by the judges.

The winner was announced by Rayson Ng, Programme Manager at ICE71, after careful deliberation and feedback from the judges. Congratulations to Protos Labs on winning the 2022 Govware-ICE71 Start-up Pitch Pit!

Thank you to all pitching companies who had made thorough preparations for this stage, the judging panel for their thoughtful comments and assessment, the Image Engine team who co-organised this event with us, and everyone who supported, cheered and participated in the pitch pit. Until next time!

 

ICE71 Startup Party 2022!

ICE71 Start-up Party! (9 Dec 2022, 5PM)

We couldn’t have asked for a better turn out at the ICE71 Startup Party 2022 – an evening filled with good food, refreshing drinks and even better conversations!

The cybersecurity startup community got to share their exciting achievements on the “bragging stage”, form new connections over pizza, and hear about new plans in 2023. 🍕


Thanks to everyone who came to celebrate another successful year and share their stories with us. Looking forward to seeing everyone again next year!

Launch of Cybersecurity Industry Call for Innovation 2022

Seven new Challenge Statements were announced at CSA’s Cybersecurity Innovation Day, which was attended by a full house.

On 31 Aug 2022, the Cybersecurity Industry Call for Innovation 2022 was launched by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA), together with partners NUS Enterprise and TNB Ventures.

The call was launched at Cybersecurity Innovation Day 2022 by Senior Minister of State for Ministry of Communications and Information, Dr. Janil Puthucheary, who delivered the welcome address to a full house at the Raffles City Convention Centre.

→ Read it in The Straits Times here.

The Cybersecurity Industry Call for Innovation invites cybersecurity companies to develop innovative solutions to address specific cybersecurity challenges.

Seven challenge statements supported by six end-users were announced. View the challenge statements here.

11 winning projects of CyberCall 2021 were announced at the event. The awardees were selected from more than 70 local and international companies to develop and trial their proposals with participating organisations.

Technical experts were also recognised for the invaluable support they provided throughout the CyberCall review process.

Thank you to everyone who participated for making this event such an overwhelming success!

→ Learn more about the Challenge Statements, end-users, and funding criteria at www.cybercall.sg

→ Sign up for the upcoming Meet the End User sessions.

Dr Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information and Health, announced the launch of CyberCall 2022 at the Cybersecurity Innovation Day 2022.
Brian Koh, Director of NUS Enterprise, shared how NUS is uniquely positioned as a global university to support cybersecurity innovation through its multi-disciplinary approach.

L to R: Prof Anupam Chattopadhyay, Mr Michael Lew, SMS Janil Puthucheary, Dr Liu Yang, Chief Executive CSA Mr David Koh, Prof Alex Siow , Dr Vivy Suhendra, Mr Emil Tan, Mr Ashish Thapar.

Notes from InnovFest x Elevating Founders 2022

InnovFest x Elevating Founders was held in Singapore from May 31 to June 3, 2022, as the official start-up event of ATxSG. Over 26,000 attendees participated in NUS Enterprise’s flagship conference, connecting over topics in Web3, Sustainability and Accessing markets in Asia.

The ICE71 Community was privileged to be involved in this exciting event, helping to promote the latest cybersecurity trends and technology to other innovation leaders in the tech ecosystem!

 

1. Panel Discussion: Beyond the Hype – Securing the Metaverse

‘“Securing” the metaverse can be interpreted in two ways—understanding the commercial opportunities for businesses and society, and ensuring people in the metaverse are protected.’

In this panel discussion at InnovFest 2022, ICE71 brought together experts in mixed reality, FinTech, and cybersecurity to share different perspectives on the metaverse. They discussed how the metaverse is building “trillion-dollar opportunity”, it’s impacts on advancing healthcare and education, as well as security risks to look out for.

We are incredibly proud to say that this panel discussion was the most bookmarked across 200 conference sessions at the Asia Tech x Singapore conference! (You can see attendees spilling out into the hall below!)

We thank panelists Dr Gao Yujia, Prof Keith Carter, Mr Pankit Desai, Mr Winston Ng, and moderator Ms Wynthia Goh for their insightful contributions!

→ Read a recap of the discussion by the good folks at KrASIA here.

 

2. Exhibition Floor: ICE71 Start-ups at InnovFest

After two years of virtual events, it was exciting to meet everyone from the start-up ecosystem in-person at the Singapore Expo.

ICE71 start-ups were part of a lively exhibition floor featuring over 100 start-ups from the NUS ecosystem.

Being a part of Singapore’s largest technology event also provided the opportunity to connect with 600 exhibitors showcasing the latest tech products, from Singapore and across the world.

ICE71 Scale alumnus, CYFIRMA, introduced their technology to Ms Rahayu Mahzam, Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Communications and Information, and NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye, alongside other NUS start-ups.

(ICE71) are doing really great in supporting innovations related to cybersecurity in healthcare, education, tech and so on – you can see there are many opportunities there and we are happy to be part of it.

It helps us, especially in markets like Southeast Asia. Now that things have eased up, we attended our first InnovFest x Elevating Founders. While a virtual meeting helps as a presentation, nothing beats seeing people in person and understanding what each of us does.

Strobes Security, an ICE71 Start-up.

→ Check out all the action in this issue of Enterprise Sparks by NUS Enterprise.